REPORT: Wolves U-18s 2 Sunderland U-18s 1

SUNDERLAND suffered a single goal defeat at the hands of fourth placed Wolves in today’s early kick-off game in the West Midlands.

It was a disappointing result for the visitors after a first-half display which had looked distinctly promising.

Sunderland had played well with lots of the ball and good passing but the final crucial pass or ball in was found to be lacking. Consequently, from the well constructed build ups few chances were created.

Equally, Wolves didn’t have any opportunities either but the Wearsiders had looked the more likely side.

But they found the second-half tough going. They fell behind early in the half, losing possession to an interception from which the ball was centred to be converted with a strike from an angle.

The young Black Cats recovered to equalise when Dan Wright - back from his games with England in America - passed for striker Andrew Nelson to finish well.

Wolves pressed and got the winner with five minutes left. From a throw in on the left the ball was switched to the opposite flank and crossed to enable them score from a strike near the penalty spot.

Coach Elliott Dickman said: “I was pleased with the first-half showing and attitude throughout but we must learn to defend better.”